Ph.D. with a Major in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is a diverse, dynamic, and exciting field. Because of the wide-ranging technical background attained, the mechanical engineers have the highest potential for employment after graduation with exceptional mobility necessary for professional growth even during bear-market conditions.

The mechanical engineering department at SMU has a long tradition of offering a superb engineering education within an environment fostering creativity and innovation. Small classes, a trademark of our program, not only provides for strong mentoring but it also foments academic excellence through cooperation and team work. Our exceptionally qualified faculty members are continuously engaged in cutting-edge research projects, facilitating the attainment and transmission of knowledge to the students. Leading by example, through encouragement and dedication, our faculty is committed to the success of every student, during their tenure at SMU and after graduation.

Our Ph.D. program is one of the most successful programs in the nation. The majority of our students are supported by their own companies, by faculty research grants or by the Department through Teaching Assistant Fellowships. The latter option is specifically tailored to students interested in obtaining a faculty position after graduation.

Requirements

The basic requirements of our program are: the successful completion of eight graduate level courses (24 SCH), beyond the Master degree; approval on a qualifying exam, the format of which is to be determined by the student research advisor in consultation with the dissertation committee; and, the completion and defense of a Dissertation. The Dissertation must be original, and of scholar level as determined by the potential of being accepted for publication in the leading technical journals in the field of interest.

Ph.D. students normally choose their course concentration from one of the following four areas, although deviations are allowed if approved by the research advisor: